Things to Do in Kotor: 39 Hidden Gems & Must-See Sights

The ultimate list of the best things to do in Kotor, Montenegro. Discover the top sights, hidden gems and best tours and activities in incredible Kotor!

If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, Kotor should be at the top of your list!

Nestled between towering mountains and the stunning Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO-listed medieval town offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and local charm.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best things to do in Kotor—including hidden gems, insider tips, and must-know travel hacks.

Whether you’re visiting for one day or staying longer, this guide will help you make the most of your trip!

Top 3 Best Things to Do in Kotor

Best Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro

Discover Kotor old Town

Kotor Old Town is arguably Montenegro's top attraction and a must-see! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a maze of cobbled streets, medieval churches, hidden squares, and lively cafes.

The best way to see the highlights of Kotor is on a walking tour. Led by expert local guides, you’ll wander through the narrow cobblestone streets to discover the history, while hearing fascinating tales from Kotor’s past.

Along the way, visit landmarks like St. Tryphon Cathedral, the Maritime Museum, and the Clock Tower.

Cruise visitor tip: Skip the crowded ship tours (often 50+ people!) and book a small-group walking tour instead—a far more personal and enjoyable experience! Check availability here.

Set Sail on a Kotor Boat Tour

A boat tour in Kotor is one of the best ways to soak in the stunning coastal scenery, visit historic landmarks, and dive into Montenegro’s crystal-clear waters. With the Bay of Kotor’s sun-drenched beaches and inviting blue sea, it’s no surprise that this is a top activity for visitors!

Whether you have a few hours or a full day, there’s a tour to suit your schedule. You can explore the legendary Our Lady of the Rocks, swim in the Blue Cave, or even visit local oyster farms for a fresh seafood experience.

If you’re short on time, the most popular option is a 3-hour boat tour to Our Lady of the Rocks & the Blue Cave—the perfect mix of sightseeing and relaxation on the water! Book your tour here.

Climb Kotor’s Ancient City Walls

One of Kotor’s most iconic sights is the stone walls zigzagging up the mountain to San Giovanni Fortress—a reminder of the town’s storied past.

Stretching 4.5 km (2.8 miles) around Kotor, these massive fortifications (up to 20m tall and 15m thick) were started by the Illyrians in the 2nd century BC and finished centuries later by the Venetians, who famously said:
"Tu me costi come i muri de Cattaro." – "You cost me as much as the walls of Kotor."

The Hike: Climbing 1,355 steps to the top is a challenge, especially in summer, but the views over Kotor Bay are unreal. Bring water, wear good shoes, and get ready for that epic selfie at the summit! Read this guide before attempting this hike.

Solve the Kotor Secret Trail (Hidden Gem!)

Love escape rooms, puzzles, or scavenger hunts? Then you’ll love the Kotor Secret City Trail!

I designed this trail for Secret City Trails, a global company creating adventure-filled city experiences, and had an absolute blast making it.

Think of it as an outdoor escape room meets walking tour—but instead of following a guide, you’ll crack riddles that lead you to Kotor’s top landmarks and hidden corners. Each puzzle unlocks fascinating stories, taking you deeper into the town’s history.

It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional tours, perfect for families, couples, and puzzle lovers. Plus, you’ll see spots and read stories that most visitors completely miss!

Exclusive Offer: Get 10% off with code 'montenegropulse' at checkout! Ready to play? Start your adventure here.

Pet Kotor’s Famous Cats

One of Kotor’s most charming quirks? Its cats! These furry locals lounge on medieval walls, nap in sunny squares, and stroll the waterfront, hoping for a snack from a kind fisherman.

Kotor has embraced its cat obsession, with cat-themed souvenirs, artwork, and even a Cat Museum.

Friendly, independent, and full of personality, Kotor’s cats are part of what makes this town so special.

But, life isn’t easy for Kotor’s beloved cats. Overpopulation, disease, and abandoned kittens are daily struggles, and with no homeless shelter for cats in Montenegro, many rely on kind-hearted locals and visitors for survival.

How You Can Help:

• Support Kotor Kitties, the only high-volume spay-neuter program in Montenegro. A €36.20 donation covers the cost of spaying a female cat.
• Visit Wood Square (Pjaca od Drva)—insert two plastic bottles into the recycling machine to dispense cat food.
• Buy souvenirs or donate food at Danijela's Shop, where owner Danijela personally cares for Kotor’s feline residents.

Squeeze Through "Let Me Pass" Street (Hidden Gem!)

Tucked away in Kotor’s Old Town, "Let Me Pass" Street is a fun little hidden gem with a story as quirky as its name.

Legend has it that two stubborn merchants, each carrying heavy sacks, got wedged in this narrow alley—neither willing to back down. After hours of arguing, they finally agreed the street should be called "Let Me Pass" in honor of their standoff.

Today, this tiny cobbled passage is a favorite off-the-beaten-track spot, perfect for a quick visit and a fun photo! You’ll find it beside Palazzo Druško Deluxe Rooms —if you can squeeze through!

Kayak the Bay of Kotor

Kayaking in the Bay of Kotor is an unforgettable way to explore this UNESCO-listed gem from the water. Glide past seaside hamlets, historic palaces, and charming stone houses—views you can only get from the sea.

The bay’s calm waters make it perfect for all skill levels, even kids and beginners. Keep an eye out for tiny sailboats, where local kids learn to navigate the Adriatic.

This 2.5-hour kayaking tour takes you along the coastline with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Book your kayaking tour here.

Hike the Ladder of Kotor

If you’ve got more time, the Ladder of Kotor offers a longer but easier route up Mount Sveti Ivan (also called San Giovanni or Mount St. John).

This old military trail winds up the mountain in a series of scenic switchbacks, revealing breathtaking views at every turn. The air is scented with wild thyme, and while a spray-painted rock warns of wolves, you’re far more likely to cross paths with a friendly herd of goats.

At the top? Panoramic views of Kotor, the bay, and Mount Vrmac—worth every step!

Canyoning in Skurda Canyon

Montenegro is a hidden paradise for thrill-seekers, and if you’re craving adventure, canyoning in Montenegro is a must.

Just outside Kotor, the Skurda Canyon tour starts with a scenic 45-minute hike before you rappel (abseil), scramble, and swim through the rugged canyon. In summer, Skurda is mostly dry, but the adrenaline rush of abseiling and the stunning views make it an unforgettable experience.

No experience? No problem! This tour is beginner-friendly, so if you’re up for a challenge, strap in and get ready for an epic canyoning adventure! Book your tour here.

Try Kotor’s Freshest Seafood On an Oyster Farm Tour

For a one-of-a-kind foodie experience, take a trip to a Montenegrin oyster farm! Set against the stunning backdrop of the Bay of Kotor, this tour is a feast for all the senses—fresh seafood, sparkling blue water, and a sea breeze in your hair.

My friend and expert guide, Ana, has crafted the ultimate oyster experience: Mrs. Zora’s Yummy Oysters Tour.

Your adventure includes:

• A speedboat ride from Kotor to Our Lady of the Rocks for a guided tour
• A cruise past Porto Montenegro, home to luxury yachts and a high-end marina
• A stop at Mrs. Zora’s family-run oyster farm, where you’ll feast on fresh oysters, mussels, cheese, prosciutto, and local wine by the sea
• A swim stop at the Island of Flowers before returning to Kotor for a walking tour

As Ana says: “This tour has everything… crystal blue water, wind in your hair, a handsome skipper, and the incredible flavors of Montenegro!”

Ready for the ultimate oyster & adventure tour? Book here.

Conquer Kotor’s Via Ferrata

If you’re an adventure lover, Kotor’s Via Ferrata is an absolute must-do! Combining hiking and rock climbing, this thrilling ascent takes you up the rugged cliffs just outside Kotor’s Old Town, offering panoramic views of the bay, ancient city walls, and surrounding mountains.

Using a system of cables, ladders, and fixed anchors, you’ll safely scale the heights of this UNESCO-listed landscape.

I’ve tackled the via ferrata in Durmitor, and it was an unforgettable experience—Kotor’s route is just as epic! Whether you're a first-time adventurer or an experienced climber, this is one of the most exhilarating ways to see Kotor from above.

Ready to conquer via ferrata Kotor? Book your via ferrata adventure here.

Explore Kotor’s Bay on a Semi-Submarine

Looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure? The semi-submarine tour in Kotor is a unique way to explore the bay—especially if you're traveling with little ones.

This submarine-shaped boat has a spacious upper deck for sightseeing and a lower deck that dips below the waterline, offering a peek beneath the surface. While the inner bay’s water isn’t the clearest, the experience is still a big hit with kids.

When my son was four, he absolutely loved it—and for the adults, it’s a relaxing way to cruise the bay. Perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly boat trip in Kotor. Book your semi-submarine tour here.

Ride Kotor’s Cable Car

For breathtaking views over the Bay of Kotor, hop on the Kotor Cable Car and soar to the top of Mount Saint John in just 11 minutes.

As you ascend, the panoramic scenery unfolds—the shimmering bay, medieval rooftops, and rugged mountains stretching into the distance. At the summit, step onto the observation deck for photo opportunities, bike rental, and an exciting alpine coaster ride.

The ride is also the quickest way to reach Njeguši village, where you can enjoy Montenegro's famous local prosciutto and cheese.

Dive into the Bay of Kotor Aquarium (Hidden Gem!)

Small but beautifully curated, the Bay of Kotor Aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich marine life of this unique UNESCO-listed bay.

Wander past crystal-clear tanks showcasing colorful fish, graceful seahorses, mesmerizing jellyfish, and delicate corals.

Perfect for families and nature lovers, it’s an educational and fun stop that brings the bay’s biodiversity to life. My kids loved it (check out the video below!), and I think yours will too! Find their opening hours and prices here.

Hit the Beach

Summer in the Bay of Kotor is pure magic. We spend 5–6 hours a day at the beach in summer and never get tired of it!

While there’s no beach directly in front of Kotor Old Town (thanks to the marina), you’ll find great swimming spots in Kotor just a 10-minute walk in either direction.

Want the best beaches? Hire a car! (Check Localrent.com for the best deals.) The further you go toward the Adriatic, the clearer the water and the quieter the beaches.

My favorite? Morinj Beach. One of the few sandy beaches in the bay, with cool, spring-fed waters and plenty of space to relax. Plus, this village is to my favorite restaurant, Ćatovića Mlini—a must for fresh seafood lovers!

Beach essentials:

• Quick-drying towel (most accommodations don’t provide beach towels)
• Aqua shoes (helpful for pebbly shores)

Discover Perast – A Timeless Gem on the Bay of Kotor

Just 15 minutes from Kotor, Perast is a picture-perfect coastal village where history, elegance, and stunning bay views come together.

Step into the past as you wander its cobblestone streets, lined with grand aristocratic palaces and stone houses draped in bougainvillea. The town’s Venetian charm is straight out of a fairytale!

Just offshore, two island churches add to Perast’s magic. Sveti Đorđe (St. George) is a private monastery, while Our Lady of the Rocks welcomes visitors to explore its church and museum.

What to do in Perast?

• Visit the Perast Museum, housed in a former palace
• Dine on fresh seafood by the water (we love Conte!)
• Stay in a palace-turned-hotel like Heritage Grand Perast

Best way to get there? By boat! Skip the summer traffic and soak in breathtaking bay views on this 2-hour boat tour to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks. Book here.

Visit Our Lady of the Rocks – Kotor Bay’s Legendary Island Church

Floating just off the coast of Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks is one of Kotor Bay’s must-see attractions. This man-made island is home to a stunning church and museum, steeped in history and legend.

Step inside to see beautiful frescoes, intricate paintings, and an ornate altar, all showcasing the rich artistic heritage of this region. The museum has artifacts from the Bay of Kotor, dating back to prehistoric times.

Getting There:
The easiest way to visit from Kotor is on a boat tour. I recommend one which also stops at the Blue Cave and includes time to relax on the beach. Book your tour here.

Paragliding Over Kotor

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, paragliding over Kotor should be at the top of your list!

Launching from the steep peaks of Mount Lovćen, you’ll soar above San Giovanni Fortress, the Ladder of Kotor, and the medieval Old Town, with the Bay of Kotor glittering below.

It’s an unreal way to see Kotor from a whole new perspective! Book your Kotor paragliding adventure here.

Drive Montenegro’s Epic Serpentine Road

Winding its way from Kotor to Lovćen National Park, the Serpentine Road is one of Montenegro’s most scenic drives—with 25 hairpin turns and views that just keep getting better!

What to Expect:

• Jaw-dropping panoramas over the Bay of Kotor at every turn
• A challenging but rewarding drive on narrow mountain roads
• Stops at hidden gems along the way

Must-See Stops:

• Gorazda Fortress – An abandoned Austro-Hungarian fort with a massive swiveling cannon.
• Nevjesta Jadrana – A mountaintop restaurant serving traditional Montenegrin cuisine.
• Horizont Bar – Grab a drink with panoramic bay views.
• Njeguši Village – The birthplace of Montenegro’s famous prosciutto & cheese

Getting There:

• Hire a car from Localrent and drive yourself, stopping wherever you like. 
• Want a bigger thrill? Bike down the serpentine for an unforgettable ride!

Discover Risan’s Roman Mosaics

Risan is the oldest town in the Bay of Kotor, once ruled by the legendary Illyrian queen Teuta before the Romans arrived and transformed it into a thriving port.

Tucked away in this quiet coastal village, you’ll find one of the bay’s most surprising treasures—the beautifully preserved Roman mosaics of Villa Urbana, a 2nd-century noble’s home.

The intricate geometric designs and mythological scenes have been carefully restored and offer a fascinating look into life during the Roman era. At the site, you’ll also see stone columns, ancient fragments, and detailed displays that bring the Illyrian and Roman history of the bay to life.

How to visit:

• Hire a car from Localrent.com for a flexible day trip.
• Or hop on the Blue Line bus from in front of Kotor Old Town.

Explore Montenegro On Day Trips from Kotor

Kotor is the perfect base for exploring some of Montenegro’s most unforgettable sights on day trips.

From Kotor, you can explore Montenegro's stunning national parks, idyllic beaches, off-the-beaten-track villages, even destinations in nearby Croatia and Bosnia.

Whether you’re looking for culture, coastline, or countryside, a day trip from Kotor offers something for every kind of traveler. Just rent a car and choose one of these itineraries or join a guided tour.

Top 3 Guided Day Tours From Kotor:

• Full-Day Tour to Lovćen National Park & More - a cultural day tour that covers Lovćen and Skadar Lake national parks and the Budva Riviera.
• Durmitor, Tara & Ostrog Monastery Day Trip - a day tour through the dramatic scenery of north Montenegro.
• Tara River Whitewater Rafting - an exciting rafting experience through the pristine Tara Canyon.

Taste of Kotor – What to Eat & Drink While You’re Here

One of the best ways to experience Kotor is through its local cuisine, which blends Mediterranean freshness with Balkan heartiness.

Being right on the bay, seafood is a must. Don’t miss the cuttlefish ink risotto—rich, savoury, and totally unforgettable. Another local favourite is fish and seafood stew (buzara), often made with mussels, clams, or prawns simmered in garlic, wine, and herbs.

Look for family-run konobas (taverns) like Konoba Scala Santa and Bastion III for authentic cuisine.

If you're in the mood for something meatier, try ćevapi—grilled minced meat sausages served with fresh bread, onions, and ajvar (a red pepper relish). These Balkan grill staples are juicy, satisfying, and perfect after a day of exploring. Head to BBQ Tanjga for authentic Balkan grill.

Got a sweet tooth? You’ll find crepes everywhere—a Montenegrin favourite found in almost every café—while Catarissimo is the go-to for gelato and beautiful cakes, and Hotel Vardar serves the iconic kotorska pašta, a traditional cream cake you won’t want to miss.

To drink, raise a glass of Vranac, Montenegro’s bold and earthy red wine, or try rakija, the local fruit brandy that packs a punch. Prefer a cold beer? Order a Nikšićko, Montenegro’s go-to brew. For coffee, try kuvana kafa, a strong, thick coffee that Montenegrins drink at home.

Just outside Kotor’s Old Town walls, the farmers market is a lively, local experience. Stalls overflow with seasonal fruits, vegetables, wild herbs, local cheeses, olives, and honey—everything fresh and full of character.

It’s the perfect place to get your fresh produce and discover local flavors.

Experience Kotor’s Local Festivals

There’s always something happening in Kotor, some are regular annual events and some are one-offs.

To find out what’s happening while you’re in Kotor check the notice boards around town, especially the one on the outer wall by Kulturni Centar Nikola Đurković.

Look out for these annual events while you’re there:

• 27th January: Sveti Sava and Tripun festivities, hoisting of the flag at Sveti Tripun Cathedral at 12pm
• Carnival: Kotor’s carnival season kicks off mid-January every year and includes parades, music and kids events
• 26th June: Bokeljska mornarica is the traditional Bay of Kotor navy and every year on 26th June they’re given the keys to Kotor and symbolic control of the town for three days. This tradition has been going on since 1420! Be sure to watch them dance the kolo which dates back to medieval times
• 22nd July: Fašinada takes place in Perast and celebrates the founding of island church Our Lady of the Rocks in 1452. Watch local families row their decorated boats along Perast’s shore to throw rocks at the base of the island
• August: Bokeljska noć is a fun, summer event that draws crowds from all over the bay. There’s a decocrated boat competition, music and fireworks
• August: The annual klapa festival in Perast brings together traditional acapella groups from the Dalmatian coast, including Croatia. A great chance to visit Perast and listen to traditional music
• 31st December: New Year’s Eve concert in the old town

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Kotor

Kotor is an incredible destination to visit and there are so many things to do here! No matter how long you have to spend here I'm sure you'll fall in love with Kotor, too. 

Don't forget, a Kotor walking tour is a must for seeing the top sights of the old town and getting some background on the history of Kotor.

In summer, you can't go wrong with a boat trip to the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks. This is a fantastic experience to these two must-see attractions.

And if you have more than a day in Kotor, the Montenegro Full-Day Tour to Lovćen National Park and More will show you some of the best sights and tastes in Montenegro in just one day.

Looking for More Articles About Kotor?

• Ultimate Guide to Kotor, Montenegro
• 9 Best Kotor Boat Tours (and 1 to Avoid)
• Kotor Private Tours
• One Day in Kotor, Montenegro - Four Sensational Ways to Spend Your Day - 
• Hotels in Kotor - Find the Perfect Place to Stay
• Top Kotor Bay Hotels

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